Celebrating 20 Years

"As we mark 20 years of science, service and solidarity, we are committed to driving public health forward. We are excited to spend the coming months honoring our history while actively building a bolder, more equitable future of health that our world deserves." – Dean Ali S. Khan

Two Decades of Science, Service and Solidarity

This milestone reflects twenty years of science through groundbreaking research in areas like infectious disease, agricultural safety, cancer and maternal and child health—efforts that were further solidified by the 2011 opening of the state-of-the-art Harold M. and Beverly Maurer Center for Public Health.

The college’s history of service is deeply rooted in its commitment to global health security and community resilience, from the Great Plains to the Global South. From its early days as a joint Master of Public Health program to its current status as a champion for health equity, the institution has collaboratively and relentlessly sought new and creative solutions to the most challenging problems in public health while working to prevent them from happening in the first place.

By cultivating a world-class public health workforce and fostering deep-rooted collaborations—ranging from Nebraska’s local health departments to international organizations—the college has transformed the health landscape. All while reaching towards its vision of "healthiest people and places worldwide."

Ultimately, the spirit of solidarity defines the college’s impact. Whether leading the global response to the Ebola crisis, tackling health disparities in rural communities, or navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UNMC College of Public Health has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the communities it serves. As it looks toward the future with a vision of "healthiest people and places worldwide," the college remains dedicated to the collaborative and innovative spirit that has guided its first twenty years.

Nominate a COPH Partner for a 20-Year Feature

As part of the college's 20-year anniversary celebration, COPH employees are encouraged to submit nominations for partners who have helped build the college over the last 20 years.

We will have two ways to recognize these incredible partners:

1. COPH Partner Spotlight Interviews and
2. Outstanding Partner Recognition.

COPH Partner Spotlight Interviews

Six external partners will be selected over the course of 2026-2027 to participate in a video recorded interview highlighting their work, their relationship with the college, and their contributions to public health.

Nominate a Partner for a Spotlight

Outstanding Partner Recognition

Two external partners (individuals or organizations) will be selected (one in 2026 and one in 2027) to receive a commemorative recognition plaque and COPH swag package in appreciation of their impact and partnership.

Nominate an Outstanding Partner

Meaning Behind Our Anniversary Logo

Our anniversary logo reflects both the college's history and celebrates its bright future. Portions of the 20-year tagline, "Two Decades of Science, Service and Solidarity" wrap around the top. Twenty rays extend outward from the number 20, representing each year of the college's history while symbolizing its expanding impact on public health. Five bold colors represent the college's academic departments, with lighter shades of those colors illustrating how the disciplines connect through the college's centers, programs, partnerships and communities.

Anniversary-Branded Elements

Anniversary-branded elements are available via request for COPH employees. To request the following items, please contact Belinda Boelter.

• Anniversary logo
• Email signature
• Zoom backgrounds
• Slide deck template